About to go for biopsy.. Scared

[Joey8920]

Hi everyone.

I've posted about this topic before with some concerns and I've done some follow up with other doctors since then as well. Over a year ago, March 2013, I found a hard non movable lump under my jaw. It's about the size of a pea. In October 2013 I suddenly became concerned about it so I went to the doctor. She said she thought it was a lymph node. Went to an ENT and he thought it was a bone. I didn't like getting 2 different answers so I asked for a CT scan. The results pretty much said that I had multiple lymph nodes all in normal size range and no nodal necrosis was found. I didn't like however, that the ENT didn't really go over the results with me and pretty much just sent me on my way and told me not to worry about it.

I found a new ENT who took the time to review my previous results. He agreed to send me for a biopsy per my request however the hospital for whatever reason wanted updated CT scans before I had the biopsy done. So the other day I went for another CT scan and today I went in to review the results.

It still says that the lymph node in question is still 1 cm which I was told is a good sign. It also says "although not significantly enlarged, because of its peripheral enhancement and low central density, further assessment with biopsy is highly recommended." What exactly does this mean? I'm suddenly very worried again. Any information that anyone could give would be very helpful. My biopsy is scheduled for next week and I'm very nervous.

[Joey8920]

Thanks for your encouraging words Bob. Means a lot. And you're right, it's easy to say not to worry, doing it is a different story. How are you feeling these days? Hope well.

My biopsy should be scheduled for next week although I still haven't been contacted to make an appointment yet. I hate the waiting game. I just want it to be over with and I want an answer already. I'm about to graduate college in 2 weeks and I don't want this hanging over my head any longer.

[Bobo58]

Joey the itching was constant and intense.
I had it all the time and a rash as result of scratching.
I even wore cotton gloves to bed because I was scrathing in my sleep.
The sweats if you have them are nightly so I am told and you wake up really soaking wet.
I have met several other sufferers and they have told me this too.
Try not to worry, not easy I know, but the symptoms or lack of them and the size of the enlarged node do not suggest lymphoma and if unlikely though it may seem turns out to be so , it is very treatable for young people.
Bob

[Joey8920]

Hi Bob,

When you say you had itching, was it consistent or did the itching come and go? I occasionally get itching but I also get dry skin from time to time, which is something I've always suffered from. I also get occasional night sweats but my room is also the hottest in the house so I'm not sure if I can compare that either. But as far as other symptoms go, I have none of those.

[Bobo58]

Hi Joey in England a lymph node 10mm or less is not counted as enlarged.
A hard and imoveable lump is a bit worrying though, but I doubt it is lymphoma.
I have had hodgkins lymphoma twice so I am a little experienced at this.
A biopsy is the only way to definately diagnose lymphoma, but usually there are other symptoms.
I had a terrible itch virtually all over my body the first time.
The second time I had a sharp pain in my neck and shoulder when drinking alcohol. I do a little yoga and could actually visualise my tumour the second time when in a semi trance.
Other symptoms are unexplained weight loss, heavy fatigue and night sweats. If you have none of these and only a 10mm or 1cm lump Ishouldn't worry about lymphoma.
I wish you well with your results I expect them to be fine.
Bob

[Ken_PA]

Hi, Joey. Finally you'll be getting the definitive answer that you've wanted.

I wouldn't worry, the scan result might have been just from pressing on it too much. Good luck, post back when you get your results.